The audience’s “People’s Choice” award went to artist Adam Neeley’s gown that took two years to construct, which was modeled by Julie Holmes. Neeley’s “Acqua” creation was made of more than 300 cans of La Croix water, resulting in a dazzling metallic spectrum of lemon yellow, lime green, cranberry pink and natural blue in a bubbling motif. Neeley used jewelry-making tools to cut the aluminum cans into colorful sheets that were then formed into thousands of bubble-shaped domes and attached like a pavement of sparkling gems, set one by one.

Artist Kirsten Whalen was awarded, “Most Innovative Use of Materials” for her creation made of repurposed window screens, complete with attached light bulbs, wires, cords, sockets and plugs, which was modeled by her daughter, Erika Schiendele.

Artist Kirsten Whalen, modeled by Erika Schiendele, won for “Most Innovative use of Materials.” Photo by Loreen Berlin

Other participating artists included Richard Bohn with his “Healthcare Life Jacket;” Brad Elsberry with his “Chromalume #8” made of recycled cloth shopping bags; Elizabeth McGhee’s “Bathroom ball” gown of reused toilet paper wrappers; and Antje Campbell’s gown made of dry cleaner plastic bags and matching hangers.

Each category winner took home $1,000 in cash for their creative endeavors, proving there’s room for reused items with a touch of creative talent in the fashion world.

As was evidenced again this year, artists’ minds are never idle, but always seeking the right mix for their next creation to again impress viewers and be the standout on the runway.